Geisha Rose
rosa moyesii
Also known as: ["Geisha Girl Rose","Chinese Rose"]
Overview
A deciduous shrub rose known for its large, pendulous, orange-red flowers and distinctive, deeply veined leaves.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","fragrant flowers","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Rosales |
| Family: | Rosaceae |
| Genus: | Rosa |
| Botanical Name: | Rosa moyesii |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden bed with good air circulation
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"5–9"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if grown in very dry indoor conditions
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent root rot.
- Soil Type: Well-draining loamy soil with added organic matter like compost or aged manure.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually, after flowering or in late winter/early spring before new growth begins.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate, removing up to one-third of old growth to rejuvenate the plant.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours/day) with some afternoon shade in hot climates. Adjust exposure based on seasonal light intensity.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to intense sunlight. Protect from harsh afternoon sun to prevent scorching. Indoors, place near a south-facing window with filtered light.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant for even growth; use sheer curtains to diffuse intense light; monitor for sunburn signs.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, less frequently in winter
Water thoroughly until runoff, allow soil to dry slightly between waterings, and avoid overhead watering to prevent fungal issues.
Soil
well-drained, fertile loamy soil
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Avoid heavy clay soils; amend with organic matter; check drainage before planting.
Temperature
Prefers 60–75°F (15–24°C) during active growth. Tolerates cooler temperatures but requires protection from frost.
Protect from frost; provide shade in summer; maintain consistent temperatures to avoid shock.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Dilute liquid fertilizer to half strength; avoid fertilizing dry soil; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings taken from healthy, non-flowering shoots.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Maintain humidity.
- Wait for roots.
Best Time: Late spring to early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
High humidity (70–90%), indirect light, and consistent warmth (65–75°F) are ideal.
Medium
Peat-based mix with perlite or coarse sand for good drainage.
Hormone
Recommended to use rooting hormone powder or gel for better success.
Timeline
Roots typically form in 4–8 weeks; establishment may take an additional 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, plastic bags or propagator, misting bottle.
Quick Tips
Use sharp, sterile tools; keep cuttings out of direct sun; maintain consistent moisture.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Cut canes back to a healthy outward-facing bud or lateral branch; remove crossing or weak growth.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage flowering, and remove dead or diseased wood. Focus on removing old canes to promote new growth.
Tools
Sharp bypass pruners, loppers for thick canes, pruning saw for large stems, disinfectant.
Checklist
Disinfect tools; prune at correct angle; remove dead/diseased wood; shape plant evenly.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter; ensure good drainage holes.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if necessary; place in new pot with fresh soil; water thoroughly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the container. Necessary to refresh soil and provide space for growth.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot; prepare fresh soil mix; handle roots carefully; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure drainage; avoid wetting foliage.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone. Water early in the morning to minimize evaporation and allow foliage to dry before nightfall. Ensure proper drainage to prevent waterlogging.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once a week during active growth, reducing frequency in winter to once every 2–3 weeks. Adjust based on rainfall and soil moisture retention.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure proper aeration.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis, leaf drop, stunted growth, or bud drop in response to extreme heat or cold.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures slow growth and can cause leaf damage or dieback, especially below 20°F (-6°C).
Solution: Mulch heavily around the base; cover with frost cloth during freezes; move potted plants indoors or to a sheltered location.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can lead to wilting, leaf scorch, and reduced flowering due to water stress and metabolic disruption.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase watering frequency; use mulch to retain soil moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use appropriate fertilizer; apply at correct dilution; fertilize during active growth; avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring, followed by monthly applications during growing season. Reduce or stop fertilizing in late autumn and winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicRosa moyesii is not considered toxic to cats. There are no documented cases of toxicity or adverse physiological effects in felines from exposure to this species.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally not toxic
Dogs
Non-toxicRosa moyesii is not considered toxic to dogs. There are no documented cases of toxicity or adverse physiological effects in canines from exposure to this species.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally not toxic
Humans
Non-toxicRosa moyesii is generally considered non-toxic to humans. There are no significant toxic effects or physiological impacts reported from exposure to this species.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally not toxic
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How tall does Rosa moyesii grow?
A: It typically grows to 6–8 feet tall with a similar spread.
Q: Does it require full sun?
A: Yes, it thrives in full sun but can tolerate partial shade.
Q: Are the hips edible?
A: The hips are mildly toxic and should not be consumed.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Rosaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
Get Expert Care Tips
Download the Plantious app for personalized care reminders and plant identification!
Google Play App Store
